The day you make up your mind to adopt a puppy, your life gets a lot better. However, you have to make sure that you take proper care of. It’s a responsibility that you have to buckle up for. Puppies can’t have solid food until they are about four weeks old. They eat quite often, but by the time they hit 3weeks, the intervals slow down a bit. However, you have to be fully prepared to wake up at night to feed the tiny munchkins. Here is a list of things that you should keep in mind while feeding the 3-week old puppies.
3 Week Old Puppies Eating Habit
The Timing Is Important
Newborn puppies are supposed to eat every two hours. However, when they are three weeks old, you will get some extra time between feedings. 3-week old puppies have to be fed every four hours. If you are planning to adopt a litter of more than 8, then it might take a few more minutes. But make sure that you have at least an hour to mix and heat the formula. Then feed the puppies individually.
The Correct Amount Of Food
The amount of food varies based on the breed and size of the puppy. However, feeding them a little less than they want is the basic rule. They should not feel distended or bloated. One indication to know when to stop is when formula comes of their nose. Feeding the 3 weeks old puppies more than the required quantity can lead to several diseases.
What Should You Feed Them
Unlike human beings, puppies can’t handle cow’s milk. Do not feed them milk or even a powdered formula mixed with milk. It can upset their tummies or cause diarrhea. However, you can use a canine milk replacer that is available at any pet supply store or even the veterinarian offices. It is a milk replacer available in cans. They can either be in a powdered form that you have to mix with water or ready to eat liquids. You have to heat the formula slightly above the room temperature as it helps the puppies regulate their body temperature.
How To Feed Them 3 Week Old Puppies
Three weeks old puppies can slowly be allowed to have regular food. You can try putting their food in a shallow dish so that they can learn to lap it up. However, not all puppies will e able to get hold of it. That’s completely normal. You can carry on with bottle feeding for a few more weeks. While feeding the puppy put him on a leveled surface. You will notice that feet will be on the floor as if nursing their mom. Then you have to place the bottle’s nipple in his mouth; at times, he might get slightly distracted and pull back. The bottle has to be kept at an angle, slightly tilted up. When he’s finished drinking, hold him just like a human baby, upright against your chest, to make him burp.
